After a promising 2025 campaign that saw the Chicago Bears take a significant step forward, the focus now shifts to what comes next-and more importantly, how they can build on that momentum in 2026. The Bears proved they belong in the postseason conversation, but if they want to take the next leap toward true Super Bowl contention, they’ll need to tighten up a few areas.
One of the biggest? The secondary.
Injuries tested the depth of Chicago’s defensive backfield throughout the season, and while the group held its own, there’s no question that reinforcements are needed. That task could become even more pressing if defensive backs coach Al Harris departs for a defensive coordinator position, a move that’s reportedly on the table. Regardless of what happens with the coaching staff, the Bears would be wise to explore every possible avenue to strengthen the back end of their defense.
One potential option surfaced this week: safety K’Von Wallace, who became a free agent after the Houston Texans were eliminated in the divisional round. Wallace spent the season on Houston’s practice squad, but don’t let that status fool you-there’s more to his story than meets the eye.
A Veteran with Upside-and Something to Prove
Wallace isn’t a household name, and his 2025 campaign didn’t offer much in the way of on-field production. But rewind to 2023, and you’ll find a player who made a real impact.
That season, Wallace racked up 89 tackles, one interception, and six pass deflections while splitting time between the Arizona Cardinals and Tennessee Titans. He was flying around the field, showing the kind of versatility that fits well in modern NFL defenses.
Unfortunately, that momentum didn’t carry over. After a short stint with the Seattle Seahawks in 2024, Wallace’s season was cut short by an ankle injury.
He later bounced around, failing to make the Giants’ roster out of training camp, then landing briefly on the Vikings’ and Texans’ practice squads. He did see limited action in three games with Houston, tallying nine tackles and a tackle for loss, but didn’t appear in the postseason.
Still, there’s a case to be made for bringing him into the fold in Chicago. Wallace has six years of NFL experience, has shown flashes of starter-level play, and could be a low-risk, potentially high-reward addition. He’s not being brought in to be a savior-he’d be a depth piece, a camp body with upside, and someone who could fight for a roster spot.
A Familiar Blueprint for the Bears
This wouldn’t be the first time Chicago’s front office took a flyer on a veteran defensive back. Just last season, the Bears signed C.J.
Gardner-Johnson midseason to help patch up a secondary decimated by injuries to Jaylon Johnson and Kyler Gordon. That move paid off in a big way-Gardner-Johnson delivered 51 tackles, two picks, four pass breakups, and three sacks in just 10 games.
While Gardner-Johnson could return in 2026, nothing is guaranteed. And even if he does, the Bears can’t afford to be caught short-handed again.
Depth isn’t a luxury in today’s NFL-it’s a necessity. Adding a player like Wallace now gives the Bears a chance to evaluate him through the offseason and training camp.
If he sticks, great. If not, it’s a low-cost experiment that doesn’t hurt the team’s flexibility.
The Bottom Line
This is the time of year when smart teams lay the groundwork for the season ahead. Signing K’Von Wallace wouldn’t make headlines, but it’s the kind of move that can quietly pay dividends down the line. He brings experience, has something to prove, and fits the mold of a depth piece who could step up if called upon.
For a Bears team looking to build on a strong 2025 and take that next step, every roster spot matters. And in a secondary that was stretched thin last season, a little extra insurance could go a long way.